Quebec Interactive Street Theatre: “Crimes in New France”

Discover Quebec’s Haunted Past with “Crimes in New France”

Imagine strolling through the historic streets of Old Quebec after sunset, where shadows lengthen and stories of crime and ghostly apparitions come alive. For just $24 per person, this 2-hour tour offers a captivating blend of history, theatre, and ghostly tales. Guided by charismatic storytellers—most notably Marie Rivière—the experience takes you through the narrow cobblestone streets, revealing the most notorious criminals of New France whose spirits are said to linger.

What we love about this tour is the interactive street theatre that brings history to life. The performers don costumes and stay in character, making the past feel strangely real. We also appreciate how the guides weave factual history into their stories, creating an atmosphere that’s both educational and entertaining. A second highlight is the carefully curated route, which includes some of Old Quebec’s most scenic and atmospheric spots—perfect for snapping photos while soaking in the eerie ambiance.

A potential consideration is the outdoor setting—it’s weather-dependent and involves a fair amount of walking, so dressing warmly and comfortably is advisable. If you’re someone who prefers indoor or less physically active tours, this might not be your ideal pick. That said, for those who enjoy lively storytelling, historical intrigue, and a good ghost story, it’s a superb choice.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, families with children (who are comfortable with spooky tales), and anyone curious about the darker side of Quebec’s past. It’s also perfect if you’re looking for a fun, memorable way to spend an evening exploring Old Quebec beyond the usual sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Interactive street theatre makes history engaging and memorable.
• Guides like Marie Rivière are praised for their storytelling and character work.
• The tour visits noteworthy historic sites in Old Quebec, blending scenic views with spooky tales.
• It’s an outdoor experience—dress accordingly for weather and comfort.
• The 2-hour length offers a good balance of storytelling and walking, with value at $24 per ticket.
• Plenty of positive reviews highlight the authenticity and entertainment of the experience.

In-Depth Review of the Quebec “Crimes in New France” Street Theatre Tour

What’s Included and How it Works

At its core, this experience is a walking tour led by lively performers who portray ghosts and criminals from Quebec’s past. It begins from the front of the Morrin Centre, just a minute’s walk from prominent landmarks like City Hall and St. Andrew’s Church. You’ll be led through the historic streets of Old Quebec—a UNESCO World Heritage site—while actors dramatize stories of notorious criminals, their crimes, and their ghosts.

The tour lasts approximately two hours, during which you will be guided through various scenic spots, each with its own story to tell. The combination of live storytelling and street theatre creates an immersive experience that appeals to both history lovers and those seeking some spooky fun.

The Route and What You’ll See

While specific stops aren’t listed, reviews describe a route that incorporates interesting historic sites within Old Quebec’s charmingly old-fashioned surroundings. Expect to walk through narrow alleyways and open plazas, where performers interact with the group, staying in character and bringing past characters back to life.

The tour’s interactive nature is a highlight—actors may involve the audience in their stories, making everyone part of the ghostly drama. One reviewer noted, “The actors were great! The number of places we saw and the different routes we took was fantastic,” indicating a well-planned route that balances sightseeing with storytelling.

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The Characters and Stories

You’ll meet 10 infamous criminals of New France, learning about their crimes and the impact they had on Quebec City’s history. The guide, often in the character of Marie Rivière or Jean Rattier, keeps the energy lively and authentic, helping visitors visualize the rougher side of early Quebec.

A common praise from reviews is how knowledgeable and engaging the guides are. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide Louis stayed in character the entire time—they were quick-witted, fun, and friendly,” underscoring the high quality of performance and storytelling.

Atmosphere and Authenticity

The outdoor nature of the tour means you will be walking rain or shine. In rainy weather, bringing rain gear and warm clothing is suggested. The setting enhances the spooky feel—Old Quebec’s historic buildings, dim lighting, and narrow streets all contribute to the eerie atmosphere.

Reviews consistently praise the authenticity of the experience, with one guest noting, “The story-telling, along with scenic views, was a great representation of what Old France was like.” It’s clear that the mix of history and theatrical performance creates a memorable, atmospheric journey.

Value for Money

At just $24, this tour is impressively affordable for a two-hour live experience. Compared to many walking tours that focus solely on historical facts, this one combines entertainment and education. Many reviews highlight how they found it worth every penny, especially given the high-quality acting and the unique storytelling approach.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy interactive theatre, ghost stories, and historical tales. Families with children (who enjoy mild spookiness) have also found it suitable, as reviews mention it’s fun without being overly scary. It’s also perfect for those wanting to see Old Quebec in a different light, blending scenic views with dark, intriguing stories.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

For anyone visiting Quebec City and looking to combine a fun, theatrical experience with a peek into the city’s darker history, this ghost tour hits the mark. The engaging guides, authentic stories, and scenic old streets make it a memorable outing, especially if you appreciate history told with a touch of theatrics.

If you’re traveling with kids, enjoy lively storytelling, or want to explore Old Quebec beyond the usual landmarks, this tour will likely delight. It’s especially appealing if you’re curious about the criminal past of New France and enjoy stories of ghosts and mysteries brought to life by talented performers.

However, for those sensitive to outdoor weather or seeking a more subdued experience, keep in mind it’s primarily outdoor and interactive. But for a spirited evening filled with history, mystery, and a good dose of theatrical fun, “Crimes in New France” is a value-packed, uniquely Quebec experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Many reviews mention that the tour is fun and engaging for families, including kids as young as six or seven, and it’s not overly frightening. It’s a good mix of spooky stories and historical facts.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 2 hours, giving enough time for storytelling, walking, and enjoying the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
All departures begin in front of the Morrin Centre, at 44 Chaussée des Écossais Street, very close to City Hall and St. Andrew’s Church.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and dressing warmly is advised, especially if the weather is cold. In case of rain, bring an umbrella or rain gear.

Is the tour conducted in one language?
The tour is offered in both French and English, so check availability when booking to ensure your preferred language.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is recording videos allowed?
No, video recording isn’t permitted during the tour, likely to preserve the atmosphere and respect performers’ roles.

In summary, “Crimes in New France” offers a lively, well-reviewed mix of history, theatre, and ghost stories in Old Quebec. It’s perfect for those who love storytelling, a bit of spooky fun, and discovering the city’s darker past in a memorable way. With knowledgeable guides and scenic routes, it provides an immersive experience that adds depth and entertainment to your Quebec visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: